James W. Forkal Obituary
We are sad to announce that on May 15, 2026, at the age of 75, James W. Forkal (Joliet, Illinois) passed away. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of James W. Forkal to pay them a last tribute.
He was predeceased by: his wife Michaeleen Forkal (Venardi); his parents, Michael Forkal and Ellen Forkal (Moroney); his sister Mary Gaydos (Forkal); and his friend Al Soley.
He is survived by: his daughters, Julie Hamelau (Forkal) and Jenny Forkal; his son-in-law Jon Hamelau; his granddaughters, Maddie Hamelau and Rylee Hamelau; his brothers, Mike Forkal and Rick Forkal (Chris); his brother-in-law Mike Gaydos; his father-in-law Bernard Venardi; and his friend Bonnie Soley. He is also survived by numerous loving sisters and brothers in law, and many nieces, nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 21st 2026 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Tezak's Home (1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435). A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 21st 2026 at 7:00 PM at the same location. A burial will be held on Friday, May 22nd 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church (14610 S Will Cook Rd, Homer Glen, IL 60491). An entombment will be held on Friday, May 22nd 2026 at 11:45 AM at the Resurrection Cemetery (200 W Romeo Rd, Romeoville, IL 60446).
In lieu of flowers, any donations to Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church or to the family would be appreciated.
